FBI pivots resources to counterterror, cybersecurity efforts amid Iran retaliation threat: Source

A planned terror attack with links to ISIS was reportedly averted by the FBI in Michigan just before Halloween weekend, according to information obtained by Fox News.

On Friday, a senior federal law enforcement official informed Fox News that the thwarted plot was associated with international terrorism. Further details were not immediately disclosed.

The FBI announced on Friday that it had intervened to stop a potential terrorist attack in Michigan. Several individuals were taken into custody, accused of conspiring to execute an attack over the Halloween weekend.

“This morning, the FBI disrupted a potential terrorist attack and detained multiple individuals in Michigan who were allegedly planning a violent act over the Halloween weekend,” shared FBI Director Kash Patel on X.

Patel added, “Further information will be provided. Deep appreciation goes to the dedicated members of the FBI and law enforcement who tirelessly work to protect our homeland.”

Kash Patel speaks in Congressional hearing

FBI Director Kash Patel testified before the House Appropriations Committee on Capitol Hill on May 7, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (Chip Somodevilla)

In a statement to Fox News, Patel said the FBI’s quick response prevented a potentially tragic situation from unfolding.

“Through swift action and close coordination with our local partners, a potential act of terror was stopped before it could unfold,” Patel said. “The vigilance of this FBI prevented what could have been a tragic attack — and thanks to their dedication, Michigan will have a safe and happy Halloween.”

Dan Bongino

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino also praised the reported operation, calling it an example of proactive law enforcement that saves lives. (Reuters)

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino also praised the reported operation, calling it an example of proactive law enforcement that saves lives.

“This is what real law enforcement looks like — proactive, relentless, and focused on saving lives,” Bongino said in a statement to Fox.

“Our agents and partners in Michigan acted fast, followed the evidence, and stopped a threat before anyone got hurt. Under the leadership of Director Patel and the watch of this FBI, America is a safer place.”

Bongino also posted on X, writing: “Protecting the Homeland is our top priority. We will not rest.”

A house with police cars parked in front of it

FBI agents search a home in Dearborn, MI with alleged connections with a thwarted Halloween terror attack plot on October 31, 2025. (WJBK)

“As a retired FBI agent, I can tell you that cases like the one in Michigan highlight how these investigations are carefully built over time and why they are so important to public safety,” Jason Pack, a retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent, told Fox News Digital. “The FBI often becomes aware of potential threats through a tip from the public, a local police partner, or activity observed on online platforms where individuals share violent or extremist ideas.”

“When someone independently expresses a desire or plan to harm others, the bureau may use undercover agents or trusted sources to engage that person in a controlled setting… Agents are trained to avoid any actions that could be considered entrapment, and all undercover operations follow strict oversight and legal guidelines,” Pack added.

Pack said that, following this morning’s arrests, agents are likely executing search warrants to collect more evidence.

The Detroit Public Affairs Office confirmed to Fox News that members of the FBI field office in Michigan were in Dearborn and Inkster this morning, but there is no clear indication if this was connected to the thwarted attack.

News of the thwarted plot comes 10 months after Shamsud‑Din Jabbar plowed a pickup truck into New Year’s revelers on New Orleans’ Bourbon Street. Fifteen people were killed and dozens were injured, making it one of the deadliest acts of terrorism in the U.S. since 9/11. 

Jabbar’s truck carried an ISIS flag and the FBI said he was inspired by the terror group.

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